Holiday entertaining: the lowly grilled cheese.

With the holidays upon us and our time shortened by the many demands placed on us, finding suitable choices for informal get togethers and brunches can become a challenge. Sometimes, however, a new twist to an old standby can be just the answer you need. I'm going to give you two recipes this time; both are simple and easy while presentable at even the fanciest of gatherings. I hope you enjoy a new perspective on an old friend by the Vitruvian Chef.

White cheddar on artisan bread

For this one you will need a good crusty artisan style French or Italian bread sliced diagonally in ¾ inch slices and sharp Wisconsin white cheddar cheese. Layer about a 3/8 inch slice of cheese between two slices of the bread. Lightly coat the outsides of the bread with sweet butter and brown in a skillet that you have added a bit of olive oil, finely ground rosemary and sweet basil.

Blueberry cheddar on banana bread

This one assembles the same as the sandwich above except it is browned in a skillet lightly dusted with cinnamon and ginger. A nice thick slab of blueberry cheddar between slices of banana bread. A yummy, slightly sweet brunch treat.